Orthodontic and Sterilization Assistant

Stryker Corporation; Greensburg (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Orthodontic and Sterilization Assistant to support orthodontic residents and clinical faculty. This role involves a variety of responsibilities including assisting with dental procedures, maintaining sterilization protocols, and ensuring the smooth operation of the orthodontic program. Ideal candidates will possess strong communication skills, a team-oriented mindset, and relevant certifications. Join a supportive environment where your contributions will directly impact patient care and the success of the orthodontic team. If you are motivated and organized, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• High school graduate or equivalent with Pennsylvania Dental Radiograph Certification.
• Excellent communication skills and team-oriented work ethic required.

Responsibilities

• Assist orthodontic residents and faculty with dental procedures and sterilization.
• Prepare orthodontic treatment items and maintain sterilization protocols.

Skills

Communication Skills

Team-oriented Work Ethic

Attention to Detail

Education

High School Graduate or Equivalent

Pennsylvania Dental Radiograph Certification

Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

Tools

Google Docs

Microsoft Office

Job description

Orthodontic and Sterilization Assistant

POSTED: April 10, 2025

DEPARTMENT: Post-Doctoral Graduate, Advanced Educational Program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

SUPERVISED BY:

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt Hourly

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

The position primarily supports orthodontic residents and clinical faculty with basic orthodontic dental assisting and sterilization of equipment, ensuring coordination of care with residents and front-end needs (registration/billing) for the Center's orthodontic patients.

RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES:

1. Provide high-level service-excellence skills daily to ensure smooth operations with patients, the public, residents, faculty, managers, and co-workers, supporting the overall program.
2. Mix dental compounds/cements, acid etch materials, prepare arch wires, impression materials/trays, and other orthodontic treatment items for residents.
3. Relay (four-handed) dental instruments and materials to the dentist; assist while maintaining a debris-free operating field.
4. Prepare orthodontic brackets for bonding, assist in patient bonding or debonding appointments, and ensure proper documentation for insurance purposes based on patient coverage.
5. Pour and finish cast study models to specifications or prepare e-models.
6. Expose and develop/process dental radiographs (intra-oral, panorex, cephalometric).
7. Assist in placing/removing orthodontic appliances; take full records including radiographs, 3-D scans, photographs.
8. Prepare patient treatment setups, instruments, supplies, bonding setups to accommodate daily schedules and special cases.
9. Prepare dental instruments/handpieces for sterilization, ensuring proper packaging.
10. Maintain order of all dental instruments and supplies; sterilize work units per OSHA and infection control policies, documenting work and disinfection procedures.
11. Conduct microbial testing of sterilization equipment, maintain testing logs, and tracking systems.
12. Participate in performance improvement activities and uphold ethical policies.
13. Oversee maintenance and repair of clinic equipment, including x-ray hardware/software, chairs, compressors, vacuum systems, and waste disposal, with proper training.
14. Perform timely maintenance of instruments and equipment; manage work responsibilities efficiently and maintain confidentiality.
15. Assist the program director with research project progress and completion.
16. Incorporate patient records into orthodontic software from internal and external sources.
17. Prepare reports, presentations, and inventory tracking using Google Docs, Microsoft Office.
18. Cover front desk registration/reception as needed.
19. Coordinate payment efforts with patients and billing personnel to ensure accurate and current accounts, supporting fiscal health of the program.
20. Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school graduate or equivalent.
• Pennsylvania Dental Radiograph Certification.
• Excellent communication skills and team-oriented work ethic.
• Ability to meet attendance and scheduling requirements.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA).
• Completion of a structured dental assisting program in four-handed dentistry or three years of equivalent experience.
• Experience in dental specialties, especially orthodontics.
• Institutional experience preferred.
• Motivated, well-organized, knowledgeable of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Interested individuals should apply to [e-mail] with a Cover Letter and Resume. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled; priority will be given to those received by April 16, 2025.

About Seton Hill University:

Founded in 1918, Seton Hill University is a Catholic coeducational liberal arts university in southwestern Pennsylvania, committed to fostering critical, creative, and ethical thinking among students. Located in the Laurel Highlands, near Pittsburgh, it aims to prepare students to positively impact the world.

Background checks are required for all new hires, and employment is contingent upon acceptable results.